Djurgårdens IF: Building From The Academy Upwards

Impetus editor Ben Gilby spoke to Djurgårdens IF’s Linda Wijkström (board member and previously Head of Women’s Football) and Jean Balawo (Sports Director and Head of Girl’s Academy) about how the Stockholm based side, once one of the top sides in Europe are now aiming to consistently push higher up the Damallsvenskan table once more.

Above: Djurgården IF 2021 team photo. Photo: Djurgården IF

“As early as 1924, a women’s section was created within the Djurgården club, but it then contained various sports”, reveals Linda Wijkström.

“In 1967, the first match was played against Öxabäck. It was in the 60s that women’s football began to develop. Scandinavian countries during this period lead the way for women’s football. For example, you can mention The FA in England had a ban on women’s football until 1971.

“In the 70s and 80s, our team played in the second division, but from 1984 we played in the highest league. In 1989 we had our first player selected in the national team. The club has had a catchment area with northern Greater Stockholm. In the 90s, women’s football became its own association under Djurgårdens IF.”

The club had its greater period after merging with another Stockholm side, Älvsjö (see https://impetus885775742.wordpress.com/2020/11/26/exceptional-alvsjo-revisited-a-year-on/). Wijkström highlights how that joining of two clubs came together.

Above: Linda Wijkström, Djurgården board member and previously Head of Women’s Football . Photo: Svensk Fotball

“A goal was set to win the Swedish Championship gold in 2005. The merged team was from the start a group that had previously been bitter enemies but everything went better than we had hoped for.

“To a large extent, it was the players’ merit. The background of the merger was that at that time there was no room for four teams from the Stockholm region in the highest national league. There was neither the financial nor player base. We also wanted to show that we could create a strong elite team from Stockholm. Six of the players also took a place in the Swedish national team which in the same year, 2003, took World Cup silver after losing to Germany in the final.

“The planned championship gold came in the first year after a match with Umeå IK, which at that time was the leading club in Swedish club football. We had revenues of SEK 1.8 million compared with Umeå’s SEK 7.9 million. Winning a gold with those revenues is not possible today and hardly then, but with a fantastic squad of players, leaders and supporters it was possible. (Comparative economy 2003, the total revenue in the highest league was SEK 26,663,000, 2020 SEK 129,000,000) Victoria Svensson was named Sweden’s best player and was also selected by one of the best players during the World Cup.

“Back then, the highest league in Sweden was ranked as one of the two best leagues in Europe, which meant that the league had good international and national players. During the early 2000s, Djurgården had well-known players from Germany and the USA, among others.

We wanted to play the majority of our matches at the historic Stockholms Stadion which was built for the 1912 Olympic Games. Unfortunately, the city did not prioritize that during the golden years, we had to change around for four different arenas around Stockholm.

Above: Ariane Hingst, one of Djurgården’s big name players from the past. Photo: The Women’s Game.

“The memory of when the queues at the stadium curled up long when Umeå came to visit and the gold was to be salvaged is strong and that interest in women’s football grew so strong after the World Cup. The following year, 2004, was even better. We took the Swedish Championship gold and the Swedish Cup and advanced in the UEFA Women’s Cup (now the UEFA Women’s Champions League) We had four players in the Olympics. We had an average attendance of 1,200 and the highest crowd was against Umeå with over 8,000 people in the stands.

“In Swedish women’s club football, there is a lot of talk about the time before and after 2003. Another focus came on women’s club football after the silver in the World Cup. Djurgården /Älvsjö was one of three clubs in the Damallsvenskan that had, for example, a club manager. The level of the league was amateur but the ambition was to eventually build to a semi-professional level. All players had other jobs on the side and / or studied, which was included in the planning for matches, both internationally and nationally. Our trip in the Women’s Cup was of course something extra.

“Umeå IK had taken the title in previous years and of course we wanted to reach the same heights. Sweden and Germany were the two leading nations in women’s football and despite the fact that we were rivals on the pitch against Turbine Potsdam, we had good contact when it came to development issues. It also led to the years after we recruited the big stars Ariane Hingst and Nadine Angerer to the club from Turbine.

“Djurgården / Älvsjö became involved in both national and international football during these years. Former gold coach Thomas Dennerby became the national team captain for the Swedish national team and took the World Cup bronze in 2011 (today the national team coach in India) Victoria Sandell (formerly Svensson) became sports manager in Djurgården Damfotboll and is today assistant national team captain starting in 2021, chairman Per Darnell took place in the federal board and we can a long list of players and leaders who have continued in football in various ways. It was an important time for Djurgården’s success and the development of club football.”

We then turned to the present day and first examined how coronavirus has impacted on the club.

Above: Jean Balawo, Djurgården IF’s Sports Director and Head of Girl’s Academy. Photo: Djurgården IF

“It has really made us think,” said Jean Balawo,  “and forced the teams in Damallsvenskan to develop in a positive way – how you think and reflect even more and often regarding events, as well as travel. It has also made us review our existing facilities to ensure the highest quality from a health perspective. Of course, we must not forget that there can also be negative bits with the pandemic, but I have chosen to focus on us as a team and club in aspect to what we have learned during the pandemic.”

In terms of the last few years, Jean admitted that the club have not been as successful, but sees good signs for the future.

“Yes, it is true that we have had less successful seasons but the trend is slowly rising. We have changed direction in a number of ways. In my role as Sports Director, not being a managerial role anymore, allows me to see the club in a different way. We have focused on building the academy so that in the long run the players will be able to come from below and in that way reduce the number of completed imports. On the pitch, we play with greater self-confidence and you see development day by day.”

With the Damallsvenskan now back after a break of over a month for the Olympics, Jean outlined his aims for the rest of the season:

“Of course, it is a tough what we have ahead of us, however, we are prepared for what is to come. The team has gotten better and better the further into the season we’ve come. There has also been some new players who arrived late that we have had to integrate gradually. The goal is and has always been to stabilize our operations, around which we see a strong development. We will take one match at a time and always give everything regardless.”

Whilst the Damallsvenskan is no longer ranked as one of the very top leagues in Europe, Jean is clear that it is still full of quality football.

Above: Djurgården celebrate Sara Olai’s winning goal against KIF Örebro earlier in the season. Photo: Bildbyrån

“The Damallsvenskan as a brand is strong and the quality of the league is considered very high and will be for many more years to come. Swedish clubs can proudly rejoice that the players who leave Sweden are usually well-trained football players with awesome characters.

“Apart from two matches this year which had big score lines, the Damallsvenskan has had a lot of even matches with many one goal wins, it is a sign that the league is fairly even sports wise.”

We closed our discussion looking at the future generation of Djurgården players as Jean highlighted the player pathway from girls’ to senior football:

“We currently have an academy from the ages of 10-19 with employed coaches who are dedicated and motivated. We have our senior women’s team captain Sheila van den Bulk as the assistant coach in FA19 to help with the transition from junior to senior.

“We have also introduced something that we call an apprenticeship agreement where the club encourages A-team coaches to look at the F19 business with different eyes.”

Roar and Wanderers Announce Further Squad Additions

There’s yet more W-League signing news with Brisbane Roar announcing two hometown heroes re-signing with the club and Western Sydney Wanderers handing a first W-League contract to Sheridan Gallagher. We hear from all three players and both head coaches.

Artwork: Brisbane Roar.

Brisbane Roar have announced Young Matildas midfielder Hollie Palmer and goalkeeper Georgie Worth as their latest W-League squad additions for the 2021/22 season.

Hollie Palmer is a Brisbane born, former Young Footballer of the Year nominee who made her top-flight debut with the Roar as a 16-year-old in October 2017.

She made 27 appearances in total across a three-season period before moving south to Melbourne City, but has now returned to the Sunshine State to join Garrath McPherson’s expanding group of homegrown talents.

“I’m super excited,” Palmer said. “Obviously I grew up playing most of my football in Queensland and to have the support of my family around me is a bonus. I can’t wait to put the orange jersey on again. I’ve played under Garrath before so I’m familiar with his coaching style. We sat down and talked about goals I want to achieve in the next few months. He’s been supportive of that.”

Though still just 20, Palmer feels ready to step into a senior role in an exciting Roar side.
“I’ve played in the W-League for a few years now and I know what it’s all about. I think I can be a bit of a leader in that sense. I know a lot of the girls will have played together or against each other before. I think it will be a really smooth transition. I just can’t wait to get started.”

McPherson described Palmer as a “learner” who is “always seeking ways to improve.”
“It is so great to be able to bring a midfielder of Hollie’s quality back home to Queensland,” the Roar Head Coach said, “she has an exceptional technique that shines through in her range and variety of ball striking.”

“She is also an incredibly positive person. It inspires those around her to be the same, an important quality for leaders in any team. Hollie is focused on becoming the best footballer she can be.”

Above: Georgie Worth will be back between the sticks for her home town club this season. Photo: Brisbane Roar.

The club have also been able to re-sign yet another Brisbane born star in Georgie Worth. The 24-year-old has recommitted to the Roar after breaking into the starting XI last term, making nine appearances and recording four clean sheets.

“It’s nice to see some familiar faces from last season but also some girls returning to the Roar after a couple of years,” Worth said.

“It seems like we’re putting together a competitive squad with a lot of Queenslanders, which is nice to see.

“Some of the players have been playing together in the off-season, building that chemistry. That should definitely translate into the W-League, which is good. I worked with Garrath [McPherson] when he was assistant to Mel Andreatta and I’m really excited he’s now taken the role of Head Coach – I think he’s a great coach and a great person.

“I think he’ll be able to build a really competitive environment, which will benefit a lot of the younger players who are stepping into the team. It’s going to be a challenge without some of the experienced players but I’m looking forward to it and I think it will be nice to see how it all comes together.”

McPherson said he was “very happy” to secure Worth’s signature for the upcoming campaign. “George has been an integral part of the Brisbane Roar Women’s program for many years and will provide experience and leadership both on and off the field,” he said.

“She has an ability to make all members of a team feel welcome and has a high degree of empathy. I am sure that our new team members will benefit from the support she provides.

“George also has a great working relationship with our Goalkeeper Coach Brody Sams, and I am excited to see how she continues to improve this coming season. I know the Queensland football community will be just as happy as me that she is returning in goal!”

Wanderers Hand Gallagher First W-League Contract:

Above: Sheridan Gallagher in action for the Young Matildas against Thailand.
Photo: Football Australia.

Western Sydney Wanderers FC have today confirmed the signing of Sheridan Gallagher for the upcoming W-League season.

The forward is set to play in her first season of the W-League competition with the Wanderers after honing her craft in the National Premier League Women’s competition and US College System with William Carey University.

Head coach Catherine Cannuli welcomed Gallagher to the club: “We look forward to watching her continue to grow and develop at the club.”

“It is very important that we continue to give young footballers the opportunity to be part of our W-League set-up and as we have seen over the last few seasons, their development has seen them earn starting positions at the club.”

Gallagher said she was excited for her first W-League season: “I am excited to have my first W-League contract with the Wanderers. All my hard-work has paid off and I am looking forward to playing and training with the team,” said Gallagher.

“From watching the Wanderers play, I know that they are a hard-working, cohesive and professional team. I am expecting the level of training and playing to be a step-up from the National Premier League Women’s.

“My goals are to firstly be part of the starting team and then to hopefully make Finals with the club.”

Irish Women’s National League Round-Up

Abi Ticehurst updates us with all the action from Round Nineteen in the FAI WNL as Shelbourne gained a vital win to close the gap on Peamount United at the top and Bohemians involved in a hugely important match in the context of the lower reaches of the table.

Above: Treaty United goal scorer Jenna Slattery beats Bohemians’ Sophie Watters in a clash between the two sides earlier in the season. Photo: Limerick Leader.

Bohemians 5-1 Treaty United:

Bohs will be over the moon with this winning result in the wet, as they secured their fourth victory in their league campaign this season. Lisa Murphy opened the scoring for the side as she headed home, Erika Burke made it two before half time. Abbie Brophy, Chloe Darby and Lara Phibbs were also on the scoresheet for Bohemians too with a second header from Darby as they made the set piece look well drilled. A clean sheet wasn’t to be as Jenna Slattery converted from the penalty spot to give Treaty their consolation goal.

Shelbourne 4-0 Athlone Town:

An important day for Shelbourne for two reasons, a chance to reclaim top spot from Peamount United in the title race and a return from 18 months out with injury for Chloe Mustaki and they did not disappoint.

Inside 15 minutes, an Emily Whelan strike from 25 yards was fumbled by Abbigayle Royanne to put Shelbourne ahead. Jamie Finn then subsequently brought down in the box and Alex Kavanagh coolly slotted one home from the penalty spot to put the Shels 2-0 up. Saoirse Noonan was also taken down in the box but unable to convert her own chance to make it three. Leah Doyle was there to ensure the third as she snuck in front of her defender to score at short range. Noonan put things to bed in the 88th minute, not before having missed a second penalty as she was once again denied by Royanne. 

Galway WFC 6-1 Cork City:

Cork City were 1-0 up inside 15 minutes after a ‘screamer into the top corner’ by none other than Eve Mangan but that was to be the only action Cork would see for the rest of the game as Galway fought hard to secure the win at home.

Above: Eve Mangan kicked things off in style for Cork City at Galway. Photo: Salem Photos.

Chloe Singleton kicked things off for Galway as she scooped one in at the back post, before Kate Slevin and Emma Starr put the home side 3-1 up at the half time whistle. Cork looked to have the wind taken out their sails in the second half as the relentless efforts of Galway continued, Aoife Thompson making an impact from the bench inside the six yard box. Starr with a brace as she took aim but was denied by Abbey McCarthy before nabbing the rebound to make it five. Not to be outdone , Ellie O’Flaherty struck at goal just before the final whistle to finish the game with six goals for the hosts.

In other news

The game between DLR Waves and Wexford Youths was called off due to a waterlogged pitch.

Peamount United’s UEFA Women’s Champions League tie with FC Nike Tbilisi on Saturday 21st August was initially postponed then cancelled due to a positive Covid-19 test within the Georgian side’s camp. The matter of result now remains in the hands of UEFA and evidence will be submitted to the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body, for a decision to be taken in accordance with Annex H of the Regulations.

TeamPldWDLGFGAGD +/-Pts
Peamount United1614114811+3743
Shelbourne1714124713+3443
Wexford Youths1612314111+3039
DLR Waves179252716+1129
Galway175392838-1018
Bohemians1742112636-1014
Cork City1724111943-2410
Treaty United1723122466-429
Athlone Town1715111945-268

Next Fixtures

Saturday 28th August
Cork City v Shelbourne (14:00)

Galway v Bohemians (14:00)

Wexford Youths v Peamount United (18:30)

Athlone Town v Treaty United (19:00)

Impetus‘ Abi Ticehurst has been nominated in the Women’s Football Content category in the 2021 Football Content Awards. To vote for her, tweet the following message:

I am voting for @abfrti1 in @The_FCAs for #BestInWomensFootball

Notes From North America

Impetus’ North American Women’s Football expert Catherine Paquette brings us up to date with all the action from the NWSL.

Above: Washington Spirit celebrate Ashley Sanchez’s winning goal against Orlando Pride. Photo: Washington Post.

The past week in the National Women’s Soccer League was an odd one. Racing Louisville and the Chicago Red Stars participated in the inaugural staging of The Women’s Cup.  While their first game also doubled as a NWSL match, their weekend matches against Bayern and PSG were exhibition cup games.  Racing went on to win the cup by beating German champions Bayern Munich, a massive win for a club with less than six months of play under their belt.

The Portland Thorns and the Houston Dash for their part competed in the Women’s International Champions Cup, with FC Barcelona and l’Olympique Lyonnais also participating.   The Thorns went on to beat OL for the title of World’s Best Club.  The Dash finished fourth after having being beaten by Barça in the third place game.

The NWSL though did go ahead with four games.  The first, already mentioned, occurred on Wednesday between Racing Louisville and the Chicago Red Stars. The double meaning of the match, being both an NWSL league game and a decider for the first place game of The Women’s Cup, resulted in even more high tempo play than one normally sees in the league.

The record attendance in Louisville also spurred the home side on.  Ebony Salmon, who has been electric this year for Racing, stole the ball off a Red Stars defender in the 10th minute of the match and then proceeded to nutmeg Chicago’s goalkeeper to score.  


Like they have in many games this year, Louisville had a greater percentage of possession.  However, their transition and specifically their penetration into the final third was often lacking.  Despite having more of the ball, they were outshot by the Red Stars.  Chicago finally capitalized in the 57th minute thanks to a strike from Kealia Watt. Similar to Louisville’s goal, it was a defensive error that opened the door to Chicago’s equalizer.

The game ended 1-1 with each team taking home one point in the NWSL.  Louisville would go on to progress to the final of The Women’s Cup through penalties.  However, that result did not affect their standing in the league.  They remain in ninth place, while Chicago remain in seventh.  Both are currently out of play-off contention.

Two NWSL games occurred on the Saturday.  The second placed North Carolina Courage faced the league’s current bottom placed side Kansas City.  KC were hoping that their first franchise win the week before would continue their momentum in Carolina.  It was not to be. 

North Carolina decisively beat the visiting team.  This is not to say that KC did not produce.  Not only did they have more possession than their advisory, but also more shots and shots on goal as well.  The difference was that like most of this year, KC could not convert attempts into goals.

North Carolina for their part had no problems with that this game.  Lynn Williams opened the scoring in the 12th minute.  This was followed by a wonderful Jess McDonald header in the 21st minute.


Former KC attacker Amy Rodriguez, who was traded to the Courage earlier this month, then made it three in the 64th minute.  While North Carolina went down to ten players in the 75th minute, KC were not able to capitalize.  It was the Courage’s Meredick Speck who did in the 91th minute of play, putting the hosts ahead 4-0, the final score of the match.  While the Courage crept closer to first placed Portland in the league table, both teams’ positions remained unchanged after last weekend’s play.  

The second Saturday match was between the OL Reign and Gotham FC.  Ifeoma Onunomu, who has been electric this year, opened the scoring in the 10th minute of play. Well placed to receive the ball in the box she made a small deflection put it in.  Her second goal, which came minutes later, was the fantastic one.  Again receiving the ball in the box she managed to place her body in the proper position to one touch it past Sarah Bouhaddi. 


The Reign did not give up though despite the two goal deficit in the first fifteen minutes.  They found their first goal in the second half, through a Kristen McNabb header.  However, it was two successfully converted penalty kicks taken by Megan Rapinoe in the 78th and 91st minute of play that put OL ahead.  The Reign won the match 3-2.  The win put them in fourth position in the league, with Gotham FC falling to fifth. 

The last NWSL weekend match was between the Washington Spirit and the Orlando Pride. Washington came out taking control of the game.  However, despite dictating the pace and having good chances, they were not able to convert.  The same occurred for the Pride.  A number of missed chances and a double save by the Spirit’s Aubrey Bledsoe resulted in neither team finding the back of he net the first half. 

It was the Pride’s Marta who scored a fantastic long range to the scoring in the 68th minute.  However, just two minutes later the Spirit equalized.  A cross into the box was badly deflected by Orlando’s defence straight to Ashley Sanchez who scored.

The goal of the game though occurred in the 89th minute.  After Trinity Rodman received the ball in Orlando’s half off a great long pass from Tori Huster, the youngster did well to be patient with it.  She then passed it to Ashley Sanchez who beat a defender and then from outside the box scored a rocket shot.  The Spirit won the game 2-1.


The win put Washington in third place and dropped Orlando to sixth place.  The league table has therefore separated at the top, with the Portland Thorns and the North Carolina Courage seven and five points ahead of the third and fourth placed teams.  However, from third to ninth place only six points separate the teams with some clubs having one or two games at hand. Only KC are arguably out of playoff contention.  
The latter part of the National Women’s Soccer League season should be an exciting one.  


Heyman Re-Signs For Canberra & City Announce Wilkinson

The big news overnight from the latest batch of W-League signings is Canberra United announcing the retention of iconic league record goal scorer Michelle Heyman with Melbourne City adding New Zealand international Hannah Wilkinson. We hear from both players and head coaches.

Above: Michelle Heyman scoring for Canberra United in the W-League last season against Adelaide United. She’s back for more in 2021/22. Photo: Canberra Times.

Canberra United have announced that two-time Julie Dolan Medal winner Michelle Heyman has re-signed with the club for a tenth season ahead of the 2021/22 W-League season.

From her incredible return to the W-League, reclaiming the all-time league goal scoring record, playing her 100th game in green and helping Canberra United make finals, 2020/21 was a big season for Heyman.

To cap it all off, the striker was awarded the Julie Dolan Medal at the Dolan Warren Awards, as voted by a panel of technical football experts and media representatives.

With 73 goals to her name in the W-League, including 61 for Canberra United, Heyman will be looking to add more to her tally when the season commences in November.

Speaking about entering her tenth season with the club, Heyman said she’s counting down the days.

“I am so excited to announce that I am back in green for the 2021/22 W-League season,” Heyman said.

“I absolutely loved everything about last season and can’t wait to be back training and playing with the girls.

“I’m just so happy and grateful for another opportunity to represent Canberra, play in front of our amazing fans and push for another finals appearance.”

Canberra United Head Coach Vicki Linton was delighted to have Michelle back playing for Canberra.

“I really enjoyed seeing her come back to the game last year and do so well and I hope she enjoys another great season this year.”

Melbourne City add Football Fern Hannah Wilkinson:

Above: Hannah Wilkinson unveiled in sky blue for 2021/22. Artwork supplied by: Melbourne City

New Zealand international Hannah Wilkinson has joined Melbourne City for the upcoming W-League season.

The 29-year-old striker made her 100th appearance for her country earlier this month in the Tokyo Olympics and has scored 26 goals for the national team.

Wilkinson is no stranger to the big stage, having represented New Zealand in the last two Women’s World Cups as well as the last three Olympics.

After attending college at the University of Tennessee, Wilkinson has had lots of experience playing abroad, spending time playing in Sweden, Portugal, and most recently Germany.

She joins from Bundesliga club MSV Duisburg and will bring a wealth of experience to City’s squad in season 2021/22.

Wilkinson is known for her aerial prowess and with her strong finishing instincts in front of goal, she’ll be looking to wreak havoc for defences all over the country this season.

W-League Head Coach Rado Vidosic said: “It’s exciting to have a player with a resume like Hannah’s join us for the upcoming season.

“She’ll be a goal-scoring threat in the final third for us and she has shown her quality in Europe and on the international stage plenty of times in recent years.

“Hannah will provide us with some crucial experience and leadership on the pitch and we expect her to complement our style of play well.

“We look forward to her arriving in Melbourne and joining us for pre-season.”

Explaining her move to Melbourne City, Hannah Wilkinson said: “The W-League has always caught my eye. It’s a very professional league and it’s great to see that on our side of the world, especially with how much women’s football is developing.

“Melbourne City is a big name and I’ve heard fantastic things about the Club. Melbourne sounds like an incredible place to live and I’m just so excited to meet all the girls. I can’t wait to get to work and help create some new memories for our fans.” 

Three More Major Additions To W-League Squads

Overnight, Melbourne City announced the hugely important retention of Emma Checker on two year deal, Western Sydney Wanderers have brought Teigen Allen back to the club and Brisbane Roar announce the signing of Shea Connors. We hear from the players and head coaches.

Above: Emma Checker – back in sky blue. Artwork supplied by: Melbourne City

Melbourne City FC have announced the re-signing of W-League Captain Emma Checker on a two-year deal.

Having joined City in 2019, Checker has made 23 appearances for the club and was named captain last season.

Playing in a star-studded team during her first season at City, Checker was part of the club’s record-breaking 2019/20 squad that went through the season undefeated on their way to a Premiership and Championship double.

After making her W-League debut as a 15-year-old, Checker has gone on to make 101 appearances in her career so far. In March she made her 100th W-League appearance in City’s 1-0 win over Perth Glory.

Checker has scored two career goals and netted her first in City blue in Round Five last season against Adelaide United.

Widely regarded as one of the best defenders in not just the W-League but country, she received a Matildas call-up for July’s friendlies against Netherlands and Germany, appearing in both fixtures to now sit on seven international caps.

Above: Checker photographed in June on her return to the Matildas squad. Photo: Football Australia.

Checker will again lead our W-League squad in season 2021/22 and is the second of many signings to be announced over the coming weeks.

W-League Head Coach Rado Vidosic said: “Emma’s an exceptional leader and having now been at the Club for the past two seasons, she knows exactly the way we want to play and will set a great example for the rest of the squad.

“She is one of the best and most experienced defenders in the W-League and I have no doubt she’ll continue to improve this season.”

Expressing her delight about resigning, Emma Checker said: “It was an easy decision to sign on for the next two years. I’ve loved my time at City so far and feel like there’s a lot more I can bring and contribute in the seasons to come.

“We’ve experienced some highs and some lows, but that’s football and it’s all in the way we bounce back this season. It’s been an amazing journey so far and I’m excited by the direction the Club is heading in.

“The Club shows great commitment and ambition towards the women’s team. It’s important as women that we feel valued by our club and that’s a big part of why I feel so heavily invested in the club in the long run.” 

Teigen Allen returns to Western Sydney Wanderers:

Above: Teigen Allen in action for Western Sydney Wanderers during her previous spell, against Adelaide United. Photo: Eric Berry

Western Sydney Wanderers FC have signed defender Teigen Allen for the upcoming W-League season.

The experienced defender returns to the club with over 120 appearances in the domestic competition as well as international experience with clubs Välerenga in Norway and Western New York Flash in the United States.

A Penrith Nepean junior, Allen brings a winning mentality and attitude to the club having won a number of accolades including an AFC Asian Cup, FFA Cup of Nations, and a W-League Premiership twice. 

Allen was part of the inaugural Wanderers W-League squad, making 21 appearances over two seasons, where she played alongside club legend and head coach Catherine Cannuli.

Head coach Catherine Cannuli welcomed Allen back to the club. “Teigen played an instrumental role in helping create the foundations of what the Wanderers W-League team looked like and stood for in its early years,” said Cannuli.

“It is fantastic to welcome back a player of such calibre to our club and a person who comes from the Western Sydney region that understands our mentality and ethos.

Above: Teigen Allen playing for the Matildas against Argentina in 2019. Photo: Michael Dodge/Getty Images.

“Teigen is a true professional and someone that our next generation of Wander Women can look up to.”

Allen said she was ready to be pushed to her football limits at the Red & Black. “I’m at a stage in my career where I understand the importance of atmosphere and energy within a team and a club,” said Allen.

“I know I will be able to get the most out of myself and play my best football if and/when I am surrounded by a healthy football environment and I do believe the club and Catherine (head coach Catherine Cannuli) will and have provided that. 

“Catherine has always been a leader and a role to model to me since I first started my professional football career. I have so much respect for her on and off the field.

“I know playing for the Wanderers with Catherine as head coach, myself and my team will be pushed to our football limits. Putting us in a position to be a top-quality team, week in and week out, giving us the best opportunity we have to come finish on top.”

Brisbane Roar Sign Another Young Starlet:

Above: Shea Connors returns to Brisbane Roar after two years away. Photo: Brisbane Roar.

Brisbane Roar is excited to confirm NPL Queensland star Shea Connors as the Club’s fourth signing for the upcoming W-League campaign.

Following two games and a goal in a brief stint with the side two seasons ago, the prolific 25-year-old returns to Roar colours as one of the state’s leading strikers.
Connecticut-born Connors has already scored 30 times for NPL Women’s leaders Lions FC this term, improving her overall tally to 66 goals in 48 appearances in the competition.

Her sustained scoring form was recognised with a call-up to the Queensland state team that beat New South Wales in the Watson-O’Connor Cup late last year and she will now get the chance to carry that into a full W-League campaign.

“It’s definitely something I’ve been working towards and I’m grateful for the opportunity,” said Connors, who plays alongside Roar team-mates Mariel Hecher and Holly McQueen at Lions.

“I think Mariel said there’s so much talent here and it’s so true. I think the team is going to bond really well because everyone knows each other already in some capacity. We’re not starting from scratch, it’s going to be such a good group of girls.”

Having lived locally since arriving in Australia in 2019, Connors said she feels right at home in the Sunshine State.

Above: Shea Connors pictured with her NPL club Lions FC.
Photo: Lions FC.

“I absolutely love living in Queensland,” she said. “I never want to leave! It’s funny, I feel like an adopted Queenslander.

“And playing for Queensland against New South Wales last year, that was so much fun.
I feel like I’m not just a visitor, I want to live here. I’m trying to make this my home. I get a lot of pride from representing Queensland and playing for the only W-League club here.”

Head Coach Garrath McPherson said Connors would be a dangerous proposition for W-League defences.

“Shea is a proven goal scorer in the NPL Women’s competition and brings speed and attacking threat to our team.

“Like Mariel Hecher, Shea is an example of the pathway into the W-League environment that the NPL competition provides.

“She has shown across the last few seasons that she can create and convert goal scoring opportunities against the best defenders in Queensland.”

Ashford Pride In Opening Day Win

Ashford Town (Middx) 9-1 Millwall Lionesses

Words and Photos by Ben Gilby

Above: Millwall goalkeeper Millie Carter makes a save at Ashford Town yesterday. Photo: Ben Gilby.

Yesterday, Impetus made our first visit to partner club Ashford Town (Middx) for their opening day Tier Five London & South-East Regional Football League Premier Division game against Millwall Lionesses.

Above: Ashford Town pile on the pressure in the Millwall penalty box. Photo: Ben Gilby.

The Tangerines are one of the favoured sides to be contesting the promotion places to the National League and they overcame a frustrating start to comfortably defeat the newly promoted Lionesses.

Millwall took an early lead with a freak goal with their first attack of the game when the ball looped up and over Ashford Town keeper Sophie Shults.

Above: Impetus sponsored Ashley Cheatley (left) in a battle for possession for Ashford Town. Photo: Ben Gilby

Ashford began to take control and were desperately unlucky not to level when Impetus sponsored hot shot Ashley Cheatley saw her shot come crashing back off of the cross bar and the follow up attempts rebounded off of the same piece of woodwork.

It didn’t take long for the Tangerines to find the net and they went in at the break 5-1 ahead. By full-time it was 9-1 as Lavana Neufville hit four goals, Impetus sponsored Ashley Cheatley two, Alissa Down two and Phoebe Head one. Cheatley also hit the post near the end. Millwall were unlucky not to add at least one goal to their tally with Shults pulling off a sensational second half save to push the ball over the bar.

Above: Ashford Town goalkeeper Sophie Shults makes a stunning second half save. Photo: Ben Gilby

To see Ben Gilby’s full gallery of action shots from the game visit the @ImpetusFootball Facebook page by clicking on this link: https://www.facebook.com/ImpetusFootball/photos/pcb.126375689720684/126374203054166/

Don’t forget to “like” and “follow” our Facebook page whilst you are there!

The 16 page full colour match programme can be read via this link: https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/files.pitchero.com/clubs/51537/c6mgSNN3REqoW2OIKPuQ_Matchday%20Programme%20V%20Millwall%20Lionesses.pdf

Artwork: Ashford Town (Middx)

Brighouse Claim Opening Tier Three Win In Style

Hull City 1-5 Brighouse Town

Report Supplied by Brighouse Town AFC

Photo From: @btafcwomen

Brighouse Town Women picked up their first three points as a tier three team away at Hull City with a 5-1 win.

Town started the game brightly and probably should have been ahead as early as the third minute when Amy Woodruff went clean through only to drag her shot wide. She did however open the scoring on the 15th minute, again latching on to a long ball before composing herself and finishing in at the near post.

Town made it 2-0 shortly after when a Kayleigh Bamforth cross was glanced in by Becky Gompertz. It was three before the break, Woodruff again breaking clear to score after great work from Darcie Greene.

The second half started in much the same fashion, Town dominating and looking threatening on the attack and Impetus sponsored Leah Embley opened her account for the club after beating her marker, she cut inside and fired in to the bottom right hand corner to make it 4-0. Ellie Dobson made it 5-0 after coming on as a substitute, latching on to a Danielle Whitham cross to complete the rout.

Town didn’t manage to hold on to the clean sheet, in the final minutes of the game they switched off and were punished by Ellie Tanser who managed to get on the end of a cross to make it 5-1.

In truth Town could and maybe should have added several more given the amount of chances they created, but manager Rob Mitchell will be pleased that his side got off the mark and can now build on the win for the upcoming games against Huddersfield Town and Middlesborugh.

Player of the match Cara Fields.

Hickson Header Sinks Leeds

Chorley 2-1 Leeds United

Report supplied by Chorley FC.

Above: Rachel Hindle equals the scores for Chorley from the spot. Photo: John Shirras.

After a battling display last week saw Chorley take all 3 points away at Bradford City, this week they faced a Leeds side who are already fancied by most for promotion this season after heavy financial backing from the men’s club.

Chorley started the game the better of the two sides and should have gone ahead when a failed clearance from the Leeds keeper fell kindly to Matthews who has been in excellent form of late but her shot was straight back at the relieved keeper.

Leeds looked dangerous down the wings but it was Chorley who continued to play the better football. Against the run of play Leeds were awarded a dubious penalty when Worth was judged to have caught the Leeds winger. Striker Danby tucked away the penalty.

Matthews then had a further chance when a lovely through ball by Worth saw her one on one with the Leeds keeper, the striker chipped the keeper with the goal mouth open but the ball drifted just wide of the post. 

It was then Bradley’s chance in the Chorley goal to spring into action as she was forced to make a point blank save from the Leeds left winger.

Above: Chorley’s Emma Hickson (right) shadows her Leeds United opponent. Photo: John Shirras.

Chorley were pushing for the equaliser and Hickson on the left was beginning to grow into the game it was her tricky run into the Leeds penalty area that saw her taken out by a clumsy challenge and it was Chorley’s turn from the spot. Hindle stepped up and made no mistake with a beautiful finish into the top corner to level the scores.

Leeds came out stronger in the second half and dominated the first 10 minutes with Bradley forced into making a couple of good saves. Chorley then settled back into the game and began to play the better football.

Mackay, Walker and Bell worked tirelessly in the Chorley midfield to snuff out any danger from Leeds midfield despite then making changes. Leeds were beginning to get frustrated and another late challenge on Hickson allowed Walker to float in a free kick which Hickson unmarked at the back post expertly floated over the hapless Leeds keeper to give Chorley the lead their performance deserved 2-1.

Chorley knew they would need to dig deep to get all 3 points and they did just that; Bradley making a couple of outstanding saves in the last 10 mins as well as some excellent defending from the whole team. Having a strong bench helped as Gooden was able to make strong substitutions to push through to full time.

CHORLEY: Bradley, Searson, Topping, Bell (Evans 82), Hindle, Mackay, Jones (Stocks 46), Matthews (Wood 80), Hickson, Worth, Walker. Subs not used: Catlow, Mills.

Scorers: Hindle pen 41, Hickson 67.

LEEDS UNITED: Wattam, Hunter, Hamill (C), Hannon, Bass, Underdown (Bartup 46), K Hunt, R Hunt (Smith 72), Brown, Danby, Williams (Soares-Martins 46): Subs not used: Joyce, Trickett. 

Scorer: Danby pen 10.

Scottish Women’s Football Unveil New CEO

Ben Gilby hears from the new leader of the Scottish Women’s Football about how she aims to develop the game further across the country after the sad demise of senior football at Forfar Farmington.

Above: Aileen Campbell, unveiled to the media to day at Hampden Park, Glasgow. Photo: Colin Poultney.

Aileen Campbell was today presented to the media as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Scottish Women’s Football (SWF).

The former Scottish Government Minister, who has been in post for two weeks says that she is “relishing the challenge of leading the women’s club game in Scotland.”

“The recent growth and development in women’s football has been phenomenal” said
Campbell. “The chief executive position at SWF therefore brings enormous responsibility – I have been entrusted to maintain and accelerate progress, raise the game’s profile, attract audiences, increase investment and widen access. #

“There should be no limit on ambition. Women’s football is only going in one direction – the question is simply how far and how quickly it can move.”

Whilst Campbell is certain the future is bright for the game, the new CEO had a challenging first week on the job. Forfar Farmington outlined their intention not to compete in SWPL 1 for the 2021/22 season.

Above: Aileen Campbell – SWF’s new CEO. Photo: Colin Poultney.

“I was heartbroken to learn of Forfar Farmington’s forced withdrawal due to a lack of
players. It cruelly demonstrated that fragilities still exist.

“I am relieved and assured, however, that with its exemplary youth pathway the club is still leading the way and thriving at the grassroots level.”

While Campbell will look to continue growing and developing the girls and women’s game alongside the various stakeholders, she also hopes to reach true gender equality across society, sport and football.

“My aspiration is that one day women’s football is viewed by everyone with the same
respect, admiration and enthusiasm as the men’s game. The progress to date has been
phenomenal and I truly believe that one day we will get there. I want to make a valuable contribution in pushing us along that road.

“It is my honour to have the opportunity to bring my experience from government, my
passion, drive and enthusiasm for football, and my ambition for the women’s game to SWF. I hope I can achieve my overriding ambition – that future generations of women and girls know and believe football is, absolutely, for them.”